Bushwise

Senior Field and Trails Guide

Bushwise  •  Paterson, ZA (Onsite)  •  19 days ago
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Job Description


The Senior Nature Guide is responsible for delivering exceptional guiding experiences while supporting the operational, training, and mentoring needs of the guiding team. This role requires a highly competent, safety-focused professional who leads by example in the field, upholds conservation ethics, and contributes to the smooth daily operation of a remote wilderness camp.


Key Responsibilities


Guiding & Guest Experience


  • Conduct interpretive game drives, walks, and wilderness activities to a consistently high standard


  • Deliver engaging, informative, and professional guest interactions across diverse audiences


  • Ensure all activities are conducted safely, ethically, and in accordance with reserve regulations


  • Act as a senior point of contact for guests during activities


Safety, Compliance & Professional Standards


  • Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols and standard operating procedure


  • Ensure legal guiding compliance at all-times, including permits, logbooks, and reporting


  • Respond calmly and effectively to emergencies or high-risk situations


Leadership & Team Support


  • Mentor and support junior guides, students, and trainees in both practical and theoretical guiding skills


  • Assist with assessments, skill development, and performance feedback where required


  • Lead by example in professionalism, punctuality, presentation, and conduct


  • Support the Head Guide or Management with daily planning and guiding logistics


Conservation & Camp Integration


  • Promote conservation awareness and responsible tourism principles


  • Work collaboratively with lodge, maintenance, and management teams


  • Contribute to the overall culture, standards, and reputation of the camp


Requirements


Minimum Requirements


  • NQF Level 4 Nature Site Guide qualification (essential)


  • Valid
    VPDA


  • Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP)


  • Valid First Aid (minimum Level 1; higher levels advantageous)


  • Rifle competency (where applicable to reserve requirements)


  • Proven experience guiding in a Big 5 or similar wilderness environment


  • Strong ecological knowledge and interpretive guiding skills


Desirable Attributes


  • Previous experience in a senior or mentoring guiding role


  • Strong leadership presence with a calm, mature approach


  • Excellent communication and guest engagement skills


  • High levels of integrity, accountability, and environmental ethics


  • Ability to thrive in a remote, team-based environment


Working Conditions


  • Remote bush-based role requiring extended periods in the field


  • Shift work including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays


  • Accommodation and meals typically provided on-site

Bushwise

About Bushwise

Your wild career starts OUT HERE!

At Bushwise, we offer professional safari, wildlife, and conservation courses designed to turn your passion for the wild into a thriving career.

We provide world-class training, real-world experience and 360-degree recruitment support to ensure you land your dream job!

🐾 97% employment rate

🐾 Only Bushwise trains to NQF4

🐾 Employment guarantee

🐾 Exclusive IFGA Southern Africa provider

🐾 Award-winning trainers

🐾 Trusted for 20+ years

*Bushwise Foundation Grants are available to cover up to 40% of course fees.

Industry
Education & Training
Company Size
51-200 employees
Headquarters
Hoedspruit, ZA
Year Founded
2006
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